Lawmakers, Cuomo focus on teacher evaluations

ALBANY, N.Y. -- Private negotiations between Gov. Andrew Cuomo and legislative leaders that have raged for weeks on bills are expected to end by midnight tonight night if bills are to be adopted by the end of this legislative session.

The biggest would likely release teacher evaluations to parents, but not to the general public. That would be a win for the teachers' unions. Gov. Andrew Cuomo and legislators appear to be settling on a deal to release only general labels of effectiveness.

Education reformers including Mayor Michael Bloomberg say teacher evaluations should be made public as the best and fastest way to improve schools, motivate teachers and inform parents.

Other bills being discussed include decriminalizing the public possession of small amounts of marijuana.